A new report from NFL insider Jordan Schultz reveals that the New York Giants mounted a significant effort to land quarterback Cam Ward in the 2025 NFL draft.

The Giants, led by then-head coach Brian Daboll, aggressively pursued a trade-up to the No. 1 overall pick held by the Tennessee Titans.

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The proposed package included the No. 3 pick, a 2025 first-rounder, and multiple Day 2 selections. Despite the hefty offer, the Titans declined, opting to keep the top selection and ultimately drafting Ward.

Daboll’s strong admiration for Ward drove the pursuit, with the coach viewing the Miami product as a potential franchise cornerstone. When the trade fell through, the Giants pivoted, selecting premier edge rusher Abdul Carter at No. 3 overall before trading back into the first round to take Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart at No. 25.

The failed bid underscores how highly the previous coach valued Ward, yet Big Blue moved decisively to address both defensive and quarterback needs.

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As Daboll now joins Tennessee’s staff to coach Ward, John Harbaugh takes over in New York thanks in large part to Dart’s presence.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Giants made ‘massive push’ for Cam Ward ahead of 2025 NFL draft